Benefit for Vershire Resident in Need of Double Lung Transplant Is Set for Saturday in Chelsea

Vershire — Family and friends of a 21-year-old Vershire resident in need of a double lung transplant will hold a fundraiser for her on Saturday at The Pines bar and grill, 1 Maple Ave., Chelsea.

Erica Ward, who has cystic fibrosis, will soon need the transplant in order to survive. To receive it, she will first need to move closer to a transplant center for testing before being added to the transplant list.

Then, she will wait for a match. The benefit will help pay for the intensive treatment and extended stay. Cystic fibrosis, a chronic disease that damages the lungs and digestive system, affects about 30,000 adults and children in the United States.

A silent auction from 3-7 p.m. will feature items from local businesses, such as gift certificates, tire chains and come-alongs, and handmade items, including blankets, purses and woodcarvings. Dinner is from 5-7 p.m., followed by live music with the Blue Rooster Band at 9 p.m.

Tickets, $25, can be purchased at The Pines, Chelsea Pizza House and Flanders Market in Chelsea, and Ward’s Garage in Vershire. To donate an auction item, e-mail ericas65roses@yahoo.com. Cash donations can be mailed to Mascoma Savings Bank, PO Box 218, Chelsea, Vt. 05038. Checks should be made payable to Kelly Ward for the Erica Ward Trust. For more information, go to ericas65roses.weebly.com.